This month’s edition of The FABRICATOR features an interview by Tim Heston with Elizabeth Kautzmann, chairman of FMA’s Industrial Laser Council and laser program manager with FANUC FA America. In this “Conducting the Laser” article , Kautzmann emphasizes, “A system is only as strong as its weakest link – and in many cases, the laser is not the weakest link. The ultimate factory solution is constant part flow from raw material to shipment.”
Kautzmann’s perspective highlights the importance of not only laser technology but also overall processing time, which is one key component of lean manufacturing. Estes agrees with Kautzmann and is constantly striving to improve both its laser technology and its shop floor efficiency.
Kautzmann has known Estes for many years. When asked about Estes, Kautzmann stated, “Estes was one of the first U.S. job shops to embody the principles of advanced automation in their manufacturing processes. Seeing the Estes facility in person demonstrates their understanding of the comprehensive power automation delivers and truly differentiates this U.S. manufacturer.”
